"Bologna have reached a final settlement with Southampton. There are only a few details remaining but the clubs have agreed in principle. And the English club has reached an agreement with me.

"I could not refuse, it's the classic offer you cannot refuse.

"I would have a four-year deal and they are giving me so much more money that would go towards my family and my future.

"They believe in me and above all they have told me they are going to grow as a club.

"Southampton is a newly promoted team in the English top flight but it has the means to stay there for a few years. To me they are going to build."

If fellow interested clubs, Liverpool and Tottenham, thought Ramirez's rejection of Saints would open the door to firm up their interest, Betancourt has delivered a blow to their hopes.

The duo, who will both play Europa League football this summer, have been heavily linked with the winger previously, but with Tottenham having had a bid rejected and Liverpool as yet having failed to confirm their interest.

"Tottenham is an option to be rejected at this time because they are a long way short of Bologna's demands.